by Courtney Jackson
The coronavirus has swept through the world and infiltrated every aspect of our lives. Schools have closed, businesses have shut down and restaurant dining rooms are empty.
Amidst the chaos and uncertainty, one thing is for sure: the LSUS administration is doing everything they can to ensure that students have the resources they need during this difficult time.
On March 12, the university made the decision to move all classes online for the rest of the semester. Some students who do not have access to a computer or internet were worried that they would be unable to complete their coursework.
In light of this situation, the LSUS IT staff is trying to make sure that WiFi is available to students in certain LSUS parking lots. Students can go to these designated areas and stay in their car while utilizing the WiFi.
For students who do not have computer access, the University Center Computer Lab is also open in order for them to complete their coursework. The hours for the lab are posted below. All other academic and recreational buildings on campus are closed to students until further notice.
- Monday - Thursday: 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.
- Friday: 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
- Saturday: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m.
- Sunday: 1 p.m. - 9 p.m.
In addition to computer access, a main priority of staff is to make sure that no student goes hungry. On Mondays and Thursdays, the Food Pantry in the University Center will be open from 12 to 4 p.m. There, students can do their grocery shopping free of charge.
Along with basic necessities, the university wants every student to still have a well rounded college experience. The Student Activities Board is working hard to provide virtual involvement opportunities and activities for students. They will be using social media to post engagement opportunities every weekday, weekly contests and other special events & announcements.
The university also realizes the financial and emotional burden this places on many of its students and will continue to try and support them throughout this process.
Counseling Services will continue to provide counseling for students virtually through Zoom meetings that can be scheduled during their office hours. They will also have webinars and meditation videos uploaded on their website to help students navigate this difficult time.
Any other information about the campus response to the coronavirus can be found on the LSUS website at this link: https://www.lsus.edu/coronavirus-updates.
Your Almagest reporters will continue to keep you informed when new information arises.